With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it's time to host a little get-together with your little ones. Invite the neighborhood kids or weekly playgroup over for a budget-friendly Valentine’s party filled with crafts, mess-free food, and pencil party favors — what’s not to love?

Similarly, skip the bowls of snacks and the inevitable spills that come with them, and instead make up individualized bags of kid-friendly food to have at the ready for snack time.

As for décor, make it bright, cheerful, and colorful for a playful atmosphere — and with your hands full of kids, you’ll want to make hosting as easy as possible while still showing off your expert hostess skills.